Certain vehicles in Vermont must undergo safety and emissions inspections annually. New residents have 15 days after their registration date to complete the inspections—however, in some cases, reciprocity may be granted. Failing vehicles must be repaired and retested.

The Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) oversees the state’s safety and emissions inspection program. Read on for information about eligible vehicles, how to complete an inspection, and what to do if your vehicle fails testing.

New Vermont Residents

You must
register your vehicle within 60 days of establishing residency in Vermont; however, you must apply for registration sooner if your out-of-state registration expires before those 60 days are up.

Safety inspections and emissions tests are due within 15 days of the registration date. All vehicles require safety inspections;
not all vehicles require emissions tests. See Inspection Requirements and Exemptions below for details.

Reciprocity with Other States

Under certain circumstances, if you had your vehicle inspected in your previous state, and that state’s requirements are similar to those in Vermont, your out-of-state inspection certificate may be recognized or your time may be extended in which to have your vehicle inspected with the Vermont DMV.

Contact your
local DMV office to find out if your previous inspection qualifies for reciprocity.

Inspection Requirements & Exemptions

Safety & Emissions Requirements

Nearly all vehicles in Vermont must undergo safety inspections annually.

Additionally, as part of the safety testing, the following vehicles must also undergo emissions testing:

Safety & Emissions Exemptions

Exhibition vehicles that are model year 1940 and older are exempt from inspection, AS LONG AS that vehicle is in original manufacture condition (i.e. no additions or modifications have been made).

Completing a VT Vehicle Inspection

To have your vehicle inspected for safety and emissions in Vermont, bring it to a state-approved inspection station along with your vehicle’s current and valid proof of registration and insurance. Fees vary by location; call ahead.

The inspection technician will provide all other paperwork, including the inspection work order and completed inspection log sheet.

Once your vehicle passes the safety and emissions (if applicable) inspections, the technician will complete and affix an inspection sticker to your vehicle.

Failed RI Vehicle Inspections

If your vehicle fails either inspection, it must be repaired and retested.

If your vehicle fails the emissions inspection, the technician will provide you with the exact reasons listed on the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD II) Inspection Test Report Form. You can see a sample of this form on the state’s page for detailed inspection information. Your repair technician will use this form to complete the appropriate repairs.